“Why did this girl with autism move to Japan?

• Living in Japan has helped me escape the stress and accept myself.
• Japan’s calm and quiet culture helps me feel at peace.
• The rules and expectations are less stressful for me as a foreigner than in the Netherlands.
• I was only diagnosed with autism at 26, which caused me a lot of struggle and self-hatred.
• I hope others can get diagnosed sooner to prevent depression and disorders.
• It’s easier for me to exist in Japan, even with my difficulties in making eye contact and speaking Japanese.
• I like the clear explanations and helpful infrastructure in Japan.
• I appreciate the simple and non-intrusive social interactions in Japan.
• The Dutch culture and language often made me feel uncomfortable and stressed.
• Japan’s calm and quiet culture helps me feel at peace.

Why This Autistic Girl Moved to Japan 🇯🇵

Life in the Netherlands 🇳🇱

Tupes, originally from the Netherlands, moved to Japan nine years ago. Since then, she has been working on her website, writing books, and taking photographs. She manages her own business and has found the process of living and working in Japan to be quite complicated due to a variety of factors including visa application, setting up an office, opening a bank account, and more.

Key Takeaways

Struggles with Social Interaction and Diagnosis 🧠

She recalls her school days, where she was often misunderstood and bullied due to her love of learning and struggles with social skills. Eventually, she was diagnosed with autism at the age of 26, which shed light on the difficulties she had faced for the majority of her life.

Key Takeaways

• Understanding Autism from a Different Perspective:
  • Autistic tendencies are often different for women and are not always consistent with traditional stereotypes.
• Overcoming Adversity:
  • Tupes’ journey of realizing her diagnosis, seeking therapy, and embracing her identity as an autistic adult.

Carving a Life in Japan 🏘️

Initially fascinated by Japan’s culture, Tupes made the bold decision to move to Japan after visiting the country. Despite facing challenges with the language, social interaction, and cultural differences, she found solace in the tranquility and orderliness of Japan, which provided her with a sense of peace in her daily life.

Key Takeaways

• Adjusting to Cultural Norms:
  • Adapting to the quieter and more orderly lifestyle in Japan compared to her native Netherlands.
• Embracing the Quirks:
  • Encountering small acts of kindness, such as being offered a seat on the train due to her special needs markings.

Letting Go of Stereotypes 🛌

Tupes candidly discusses her experiences as a Dutch woman living in Japan. She offers insights into Dutch culture and the misconceptions about what life in the Netherlands looks like. Noteworthy topics include personal space, greetings, and social customs unique to each culture.

Key Takeaways

Beyond Labels 🌏

Reflecting on her journey, Tupes emphasizes the significance of early diagnosis for neurodiverse individuals around the world. By openly sharing her personal story, she aims to raise awareness and encourage individuals to embrace their unique identities without defining themselves solely by their diagnosis.

FAQ

• How did Tupes discover her diagnosis and why was it significant?
  • After reading an article about autism in women, Tupes sought a formal diagnosis, ultimately providing clarity and self-understanding.
• What lessons can be learned from Tupes’ story?
  • Tupes’ story highlights the importance of resilience, self-discovery, and cultural appreciation, and seeks to change perceptions about autism and diversity.

Conclusion:
Tupes’ experiences in Japan represent an inspirational story marked by challenges, perseverance, and the determination to carve out her own path in a foreign land. Her deeply personal account underscores the importance of cultural understanding, emotional resilience, and embracing one’s identity in a society where every individual has their own unique place.